Toyota teases all-new RAV4 ahead of L.A. Auto Show debut

Toyota has released a short video teasing the all-new 2013 RAV4, which will make its world debut at the L.A. Auto Show.

Toyota has released a short video teasing the all-new 2013 RAV4, which will make its world debut at the L.A. Auto Show.

David Undercoffler

Toyota will be making big news at the Los Angeles Auto Show this month with a world debut of the 2013 RAV4 crossover sport-utility vehicle.

Looking to whet the public's appetite before the full details on the vehicle are released, Toyota has produced a slick video teasing the fourth-generation SUV.

Featuring some smooth jazz music over quick cuts of the silhouetted RAV4, the video makes clear that Toyota is hoping to position the new RAV4 as a stylish entry to the segment, a bit of a change from its more practical-minded and homely predecessor.

Details on the vehicle's powertrain haven't been released but don't expect the base engine to vary wildly from what's available now. That motor is a four-cylinder unit making 179 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque and is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. However, it's very likely that the antiquated gearbox will not carry over, in the name of efficiency.

The 2013 RAV4 will join a segment with several other fresh additions to it. Honda's CR-V, Mazda's CX-5 and Ford's Escape all came to the market in 2012 with substantial redesigns, and Nissan likely isn't far behind with a new version of its Rogue crossover.

You can see the all-new RAV4 at the L.A. Auto Show from Nov. 30 to Dec. 9 at the Los Angeles Convention Center and stay tuned to Highway 1 as we cover the media days live on Nov. 28 and 29., including the official world debut of this RAV4.